To send proactive messages on WhatsApp—such as notifications, shopping cart reminders, or promotions—you must first create templates and submit them to Meta for approval.
Here’s how to do it using Botnation.
What is a WhatsApp message template?
A template (or message template) is a pre-written message format that has been approved by Meta. It is required whenever you want to contact a user outside the 24-hour window, or send them a utility or marketing message.
A template can contain:
- Fixed text
- Custom variables (first name, order number, amount, etc.) enclosed in double curly braces: {{1}}, {{2}}
- One media file in the header (image, video, document)
- Action buttons (URL link, phone number, quick reply)
How do I create a template in Botnation?
From your Botnation dashboard:
- Go to Channels → WhatsApp → Templates
- Click “Create a New Template”
- Please fill in the following fields:
Template name, in lowercase, without spaces or special characters (e.g., order_confirmation)
Category: Choose from: Marketing, Utility, or Authentication
Language: Select the language of the message (French is available)
Message body: Write your message. Use {{1}}, {{2}}, etc., to insert dynamic variables.
Header (optional), text, image, video, or document
Footer (optional), short text displayed below the message
Buttons (optional)—add up to 3 buttons: quick reply, URL link, or phone call
Click ” Submit to Meta ” to start the approval process
TIP
Give your templates descriptive and consistent names. You may end up with dozens of them—a good naming convention will save you time when configuring your scenarios.
How long does the approval process take?
Meta reviews each template before approving it. The typical turnaround time is a few minutes to 24 hours. In some cases, Meta may request changes or reject the template.
The possible statuses are:
- Pending: The template is currently under review
- Approved: You can use this template in your bots
- Rejected: The template does not comply with Meta’s rules
Why might a template be rejected?
The most common reasons for rejection are:
- The content is too promotional for the “Utility” category
- The message contains misleading promises or prohibited content
- The variables are formatted incorrectly, or the template is incomprehensible without them
- The template looks like a phishing message
GOOD TO KNOW
If your submission is rejected, Meta will usually tell you the reason. You can make corrections and resubmit it. A template that has been rejected multiple times may result in restrictions on your account.
Summary
- Template created with name, category, language, and message body
- Variables and buttons configured as needed
- Template submitted to Meta and approved
- Template available in your Botnation scenarios
